Love it or hate it, plumbing is an absolute fundamental for every household. We can't live without our water supply and safe water disposal. Learning the bare essentials is therefore not only advisable, it's essential: and knowing a few of the basics can save you a lot of money.
But before starting, it's important to acknowledge that many jobs are definitely best left to qualified plumbers. You can fix a leaking faucet, but you shouldn't go messing about with major appliance jobs such as central heating, aircon systems or major leaks. To do so can prove more costly, dangerous and disastrous for not only your appliances but your whole house.
One of the most important things to identify is the stopcock. This is the valve that controls the entire incoming cold water supply into your home. If a major leak occurs, with water splashing everywhere - you need to know exactly where the stopcock is so that you can turn it off, cutting off the whole water supply.
Next, annoying leaks at the faucet. There's nothing more annoying than a constant dribble or drip. Most problems stem from faulty washers. Washers are small, rubber discs sitting with the cartridge. They can wear out when the faucet turns.
To replace a washer, first TURN OFF THE WATER SUPPLY. Then, put the plug in the sink, so you don't lose any nuts and bolts down the drain! Take off the faucet lid, unscrew the small cross-head screw and take the faucet apart. You may need an adjustable wrench for this. You will locate the washer between the threads.
For anything more complex, it really is best to call in a qualified, professional plumbing company. Keep the name of a recommended, reliable and local firm close at hand, for when an emergency arrives. Water leakage can wreck carpets, soft furnishings, paint work and come dangerously close to electricity all too quickly, so it needs tackling immediately.
But before starting, it's important to acknowledge that many jobs are definitely best left to qualified plumbers. You can fix a leaking faucet, but you shouldn't go messing about with major appliance jobs such as central heating, aircon systems or major leaks. To do so can prove more costly, dangerous and disastrous for not only your appliances but your whole house.
One of the most important things to identify is the stopcock. This is the valve that controls the entire incoming cold water supply into your home. If a major leak occurs, with water splashing everywhere - you need to know exactly where the stopcock is so that you can turn it off, cutting off the whole water supply.
Next, annoying leaks at the faucet. There's nothing more annoying than a constant dribble or drip. Most problems stem from faulty washers. Washers are small, rubber discs sitting with the cartridge. They can wear out when the faucet turns.
To replace a washer, first TURN OFF THE WATER SUPPLY. Then, put the plug in the sink, so you don't lose any nuts and bolts down the drain! Take off the faucet lid, unscrew the small cross-head screw and take the faucet apart. You may need an adjustable wrench for this. You will locate the washer between the threads.
For anything more complex, it really is best to call in a qualified, professional plumbing company. Keep the name of a recommended, reliable and local firm close at hand, for when an emergency arrives. Water leakage can wreck carpets, soft furnishings, paint work and come dangerously close to electricity all too quickly, so it needs tackling immediately.
About the Author:
Roto Rooter has plumbing. Their skilled team is ready to help you with all of your plumbing needs. They are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. (http://www.rotorooter.com/chicago)
